Jalen Hurts can cement key Eagles trend, other top storylines vs Rams

Los Angeles hosts Philadelphia in a pivotal NFC showdown. Can the Rams handle the Eagles’ top-ranked rushing attack and keep their playoff hopes alive?
Matthew Stafford, Los Angeles Rams (L) - Jalen Hurts, Philadelphia Eagles (R)
Matthew Stafford, Los Angeles Rams (L) - Jalen Hurts, Philadelphia Eagles (R) / Harry How/GettyImages
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The Philadelphia Eagles (8-2) take their top-ranked rushing offense to SoFi Stadium this Sunday. This is a prime-time battle with the Los Angeles Rams (5-5). It will be featured on Sunday Night Football.

The Eagles aim to extend their winning streak to seven games. Their stars, Saquon Barkley and Jalen Hurts included, will power them.

The Rams have clawed their way back into playoff contention, and they face one of their toughest challenges yet.

Both teams are fighting for critical postseason positioning. This matchup promises to reveal much about the NFC hierarchy.

The Eagles’ backfield is the most dangerous weapon in the NFL right now.

Philadelphia’s ground attack has been the engine of its success. The Birds lead the league, averaging 181.3 rushing yards per game.

Saquon Barkley’s seamless transition to the Eagles’ offense has made him an MVP candidate. He has rushed for 1,137 yards and scored 10 total touchdowns.

Adding Jalen Hurts’ dual-threat abilities only makes this rushing unit harder to contain. Against the Rams, the Eagles will likely lean heavily on their elite backfield to keep the chains moving.

The Rams’ improving defense will be tested like never before.

The Rams' defense is coming off a solid performance in New England. They registered three sacks, but they'll need to be even better against the Eagles.

L.A. has been inconsistent as a unit. Aaron Donald is gone, and the D-line's interior needs an anchor to disrupt Hurts in the passing game and slow down QB1 and Barkley in the ground game.

The Rams must win in the trenches to have any shot at containing Philadelphia’s juggernaut. Our money is on Philly, but this could be intriguing. Highlight this matchup as you're watching on Sunday.

Jalen Hurts’ is playing turnover-free football, and that has been the key to his recent success.

After a rocky start to the season, Hurts has mostly found his rhythm. He isn't turning the ball over as much, throwing just one interception over his last seven games. He could see the field better, but things could certainly be worse.

Philadelphia’s passing offense ranks 22nd in the league. QB1's connection with receivers A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith has shown continued flashes of excellence.

If the Rams sell out to stop the run, expect Hurts to test their secondary. More often than not, he should be successful.

Matt Stafford is experienced, so keep an eye on him when the Rams have the football. He has also been accurate. This could be a nice QB duel.

The Rams' playoff hopes hinge on this game.

Sitting at 5-5, the Rams have little room for error in a crowded NFC playoff race. While their offense has gained momentum recently, they’ll face an Eagles defense ranked among the league’s best. It's a classic strength vs. strength matchup and a chess match between Sean McVay and Vic Fangio.

Los Angeles must find and exploit Philadelphia’s vulnerabilities as efficiently as they can. A loss throws them back in the Wild Card standings.

In the ensuing weeks, the Rams face the Saints, Bills and 49ers. Their schedule doesn't get easier, and they have zero room for error.

This matchup will have lasting implications for both teams.

Sunday night’s clash between the Eagles and Rams is more than just another game—it’s a litmus test for both teams.

Can Philadelphia maintain its dominance and secure a seventh-straight win? Or will Los Angeles rise to the occasion and prove they’re a legitimate contender in the NFC?

With playoff implications on the line, all eyes will be on SoFi Stadium for what promises to be a thrilling matchup.

Make sure you follow us on X (Twitter) @BeakOfTheEast and @InsideIggles to stay sharp on all Eagles updates and more…

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